In the high-stakes world of boxing, the fighters are often the center of attention for the spectators. The devastating punches, the anticipation, and the extravagance – everything plays a role in making fights a memorable spectacle. However, a grueling process runs in the background to ensure the fighters involved are on a level playing field. It’s called drug testing! According to reports, before the Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Liam Smith fight, the VADA tests did not happen. 

The news came out after the September 2 match concluded, where ‘Next Gen’ won the fight with a tenth-round stoppage. Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, revealed that Ben Shalom, the promoter for Liam Smith, did not want to spend money on VADA testing. The bout generated an estimated $35 million from Pay-Per-View revenue. So, it’s safe to say that the fighters took home a considerable amount. However, the question remains – what does the winner of the bout think about the lack of testing? 

Chris Eubank Jr. weighs in on the matter

Following the topic exploding in the boxing community, Eubank Jr. questioned officials while appearing in an interview with @IFLTV. During the interview, ‘Next Gen’ started by saying there should be testing regardless of whether the fight is a PPV. He described his views on testing in general and said, “I think there should be as much testing as possible.” Eubank Jr. then asked, “Why there wasn’t VADA testing? I don’t know.” 

During the interview, Eubank also claimed he is a clean athlete who gets tested regularly. He also claimed he got tested by UKAD before the fight. His exact words were, “I am clean, and I was getting tested by UKAD.” Finally, Eubank ended by emphasizing, “There should have been extra testing.” With that said, what’s Eubank Jr.’s next step?

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Eubank Jr.’s thoughts on a fight against Conor Benn

Immediately after ‘Next Gen’ took down Liam Smith, he announced to the boxing world that he wanted a fight against Conor Benn. There were plans for Eubank Jr. to face off against Benn earlier last year. But things quickly fell apart after news of Benn’s failed doping test came out. However, that does not entirely eliminate the chances of the two fighters colliding.

Also Read: Weeks After $35,000,000 Fight, Chris Eubank Jr. Breaks Silence on Trainer Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre’s Recent Arrest

Eubank Jr. claims the fight won’t happen right away, as Benn has to sort things out regarding his tests and the whole drug fiasco. But the fight will happen sometime in the future, and as per Eubank’s terms, reported by Sky Sports. What’s more, the fight makes a lot of sense from a financial standpoint. 

Even their fathers, Chris Eubank Sr. and Nigel Benn, were popular rivals who fought each other back in the 90s. So, the children of these fighters getting back in the ring reigniting the rivalry would make for an excellent spectacle.

Drug testing is the most vital aspect of boxing, which helps the parties involved get a fair shot at winning. Ignoring or willfully overlooking such procedures is not just unfair to the fighters but also to the audience. What’s your take on the situation? Do you agree with Eubank Jr. about more testing before the fight?

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